Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of holiday cherry bars! If you’re looking for a festive treat that is both colorful and crowd-pleasing, you’ve come to the right place. These easy holiday cherry bars are perfect for Christmas celebrations, parties, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests with a homemade dessert. In this article, we’ll explore how to make these simple cherry bars that are sure to become a new holiday favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These homemade cherry bars for Christmas are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. The combination of sweet cherries and a buttery base makes them the best crowd-pleasing cherry desserts you can serve. With our quick cherry bar recipe, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you’re craving a festive treat.
Moreover, these cherry bars are versatile and can be made gluten-free, vegan, or dairy-free to accommodate various dietary preferences. So whether you’re looking for a low-sugar holiday option or a nutty cherry bars holiday recipe, this recipe has got you covered.
With the festive cherry bars topped with a glaze, you can easily create a decorative dessert for entertaining or sharing with loved ones during the holiday season. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make these mouthwatering cherry bars.
Ingredients
For the cherry bars:
Fresh cherries, pitted and chopped
– All-purpose flour
– Sugar
– Butter, cold and cubed
Salt
– Optional: Nuts (such as almonds or pecans), chopped
To make the glaze:
– Powdered sugar
– Milk (or dairy-free alternative)
– Vanilla extract
Feel free to customize these cherry bars by adding coconut flakes or oats for extra texture. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend or vegan butter for a dietary-friendly version.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press two-thirds of the mixture into the prepared pan to form the base.
5. Spread the chopped cherries evenly over the base.
6. Sprinkle the remaining flour mixture and nuts over the cherries.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown.
8. While the bars are baking, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
9. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cherry bars once they are out of the oven.
Allow the bars to cool before slicing into squares and serving.
Expert Tips for Success
– Use cold butter to achieve a flaky and tender base for the cherry bars.
– Don’t overmix the dough to ensure a crumbly texture that complements the cherries.
– For a richer flavor, toast the nuts before adding them to the flour mixture.
– Let the cherry bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Variations and Substitutions
If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider adding almond extract to the glaze for a hint of almond flavor. You can also swap the cherries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries to create unique fruit bars. For a healthier twist, substitute part of the flour with almond flour or oats for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry bars are delicious on their own but can be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve them warm for a comforting dessert or enjoy them chilled for a refreshing treat. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for a cozy holiday indulgence.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the bars.
Q: How long do these cherry bars stay fresh?
A: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Q: Can I freeze the cherry bars?
A: Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 1 month.
Final Thoughts
These holiday cherry bars are a perfect addition to your festive baking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these cherry bars are sure to delight your taste buds. Get creative with different variations and share these delicious bars with your friends and family this holiday season. Happy baking!